I am somewhat doubtful

 

While I have trained a number of teachers in face-to-face mode, an online platform is a new space for me, and I am consistently trying out new ideas and activities. A typical training session includes discussions based on questions, watching videos, hands-on work in small groups and goal setting in the end. I have always been interested in cognitive science (Rosenshine, 2012, pp.3) and keep adding to my repertoire strategies to help ignite the thinking in the students, children or adults.

If I map to the principles given in the list (Rosenshine, 2012, pp.19), I am covering:

 (a) small steps with practice for I switch the method every 5 to 8 minutes, 

(b) clear explanations, which is my core strength, 

(c) check for understanding, for my sessions are driven by questioning, 

(d) active practice as I keep them working, 

(e) explain what they have learnt as I give the teachers time to share what they have learnt at the end of each session and 

(f) prepare them for independent practice, when I give them tasks.

I can see that I have missed out some key principles such as: 

(a) begin each session with a review of the past knowledge, 

(b) reteach material and 

(c) provide many examples. 

I never thought of these as I am so worried about time crunch. Each session is for 45 min only. I think I can include them by not having breakout room discussions as that would save time. It will also give me more variety to play around with. I will definitely focus on review of past knowledge as the 9 modules are all interconnected for the training program. I will also try and provide many examples depending on time availability.

I am somewhat doubtful about modelling steps as I have not experienced it as a student or a teacher for students. I am wondering how I can use it with adults. Perhaps in a session for, let’s say Collaboration in classes, I can act like a teacher and demonstrate how to use it or act like a child and show how many different situations can occur in a class. This one I will need to think deeply and is my homework.

 

References

Rosenshine, B. (2012).  Principles of instruction: Research-based strategies that all teachers should know.  American Educator, 12-39.(https://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/periodicals/Rosenshine.pdf)